Roberta "Robbie" Citchen

Roberta Menyon Citchen was born April 2, 1953, in Detroit, Michigan, to the union of Benjamin Franklin Dobbs Sr. and Flossie Mae Dobbs. Roberta became affectionally known by family and lifelong friends as "Robbie.". She was the second oldest of 4 children: Gregory Dobbs, Debra Dobbs-Calloway, and Benjamin Dobbs Jr. She attended Ecorse Public Schools and graduated from Ecorse High, class of 1971. Robbie has two daughters, Kimberly Citchen, from her marriage to Eddie Citchen (1972), and Sabrina Bobbitt.

Robbie confessed her faith in Christ at an early age under the leadership of the late Rev. Joseph B. Barlow Jr. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Ecorse, Michigan, where she served faithfully. After relocating to Nashville, TN, Robbie became an active member of Lake Providence Missionary Baptist Church. Robbie held her church family dear to her heart, finding joy and fulfillment in their fellowship. Every Sunday, she made it a point to attend the early morning services, and during the week, she eagerly participated in the Mid-Week Bible Study sessions. Her dedication extended to the Sunday School classes, where she engaged in learning and sharing. Beyond participating in various church activities, Robbie committed herself to serving the Media Ministry, using her skills and passion to contribute meaningfully to the church community.

Robbie dedicated over 30 years of her career to General Motors. In 1990, she made the decision to relocate to Nashville, TN, while still maintaining her position at General Motors. Her commitment and hard work led to a successful career, culminating in her well-deserved retirement in 2004. After her retirement, Robbie worked for Hi-Tech in Nashville, TN, for 18 years, where she could enjoy her love for vintage electronics and audio equipment. She was a prolific music enthusiast and enjoyed attending all the jazz festivals and concerts with her crew. She loved sports, music, records, dancing, bowling, 18th Street block club parties, and spending time with her grandson "Boogie." 

To know Robbie was to love her. Robbie brought light into every room with a smile that could warm the coldest days. She had an infectious joy and a personality that drew people in, making everyone feel seen and valued. She strutted her contagious smile and loving personality with everyone she met and never met a stranger. Robbie was a shining example of creativity, infusing everything she did with a unique and imaginative touch. Whether through personalized playlists, quilting, photography, or creating trinkets, Robbie's creative spirit inspired those around her and left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Her creativity not only showcased her skills but also reflected the deep passion she had for expressing her love for others through creativeness. Despite her illnesses, Robbie never complained; her personality and infectious joy shone through even in her last days. 

Robbie is preceded in death by her father, Benjamin Franklin Dobbs Sr., and brother, Gregory Dobbs, nephew Darrell, and brother-in-law, Steven Calloway.

She leaves to cherish her memories: daughters, Kimberly Citchen and Sabrina Bobbitt; grandchildren, Juwan Citchen, Gabriel Hall, and J’lyn Wright Jr.; her loving and devoted mother, Flossie Dobbs; one sister, Debra Dobbs-Calloway of Ecorse, MI and a brother, Benjamin F. Dobbs, Jr (Sonya Faye Dobbs) of Nashville, TN and a sister-in-law Pamela Dobbs; and nieces Dana, Denise, Tamara, Mae, and Mary; nephews Gregory, Jamel, and Benjamin III (B.J.); a close friend, Audrey Young-Miller; and a host of aunties, uncles, cousins, relatives, and friends. 

Her family would like to thank Tennessee Oncology for their compassionate care. In addition, they would like to thank her pastor, Rev. H. Bruce Maxwell, Media Ministry, Deacons, Mothers, Sunday School class, and the Lake Providence Family for their support.  

Robbie passed peacefully on May 18, 2024, with her family by her side. Robbie will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love, kindness, and generosity legacy will remain forever.